Man Serenades Local Walmart With National Anthem Over Intercom, Then Manager Gives Him Gift Card

Caralynn is a writer, native New Yorker, TV enthusiast, and dog mom to Hobbes.

James Fruits unexpectedly became an internet sensation week when he broke out into song in a very unexpected place.

James gave unsuspecting Walmart shoppers a professional-caliber performance of “The Star-Spangled Banner” over an intercom loudspeaker.

According to ABC News, James is a 40-year-old man from Cleveland, Ohio. He gave his performance on July 8, 2017, at the Walmart in Osage Beach, Missouri. He was there on vacation with his family when they stopped in to pick up a few things.

At first, he was only singing in one of the store aisles where American flags were displayed. He said he had been dared by a friend to do so. Then, the Walmart manager who overheard him called him up to the customer-service desk and requested that he sing again — this time over the intercom, so everyone shopping could hear his beautiful voice!

“Attention Walmart shoppers,” James announced, right before breaking into the beloved patriotic song.

James’ performance was filmed by his 15-year-old son, Malachi. The footage was shared by Walmart on their official Facebook page on July 11, 2017. At last count, the video had been viewed over 760,000 times and shared over 3,200 times.

The manager gave him a $10 Walmart gift card and a Walmart superhero cape as thanks for sharing his voice with the crowd.

When he’s not vacationing and giving impromptu performances in Walmart stores, James works as the creative arts minister at his church back home in Ohio.

What do you think of James’ rendition of the national anthem?

Check it out below, and please SHARE this unexpected moment on Facebook!